Clemson, SC (WLTX) - Clemson President Jim Barker will have emergency heart surgery Friday.
Barker sent a letter to the university Thursday night stating he needed triple bypass surgery. He explained that a heart catheterization determined he had blockages.
The surgery will be performed at Greenville Memorial Hospital. He said he expects to be hospitalized for up to a week, and afterward, will likely need to take a medical leave.
"I have every confidence of a complete recovery for several reasons," Barker said in his letter. "First, I am being treated by Clemson doctors and nurses. Second, I am in good health overall. Third, I have full confidence in the administrative team at Clemson to keep projects and priorities moving forward without a hitch. The Board of Trustees has been notified and has pledged their full support as well."
Provost Dori Helms will take on Barker's duties for the present.